Kicked-Up Gazpacho

I posted a wonderful gazpacho recipe yesterday. It's fantastic as is. But that's not to stay that it couldn't be even better. Let's explore....

Additional Spices and Flavors
Now I wouldn't throw all of these in at once, but here are a few things you could throw in to amp up the spice and or flavor of the soup.

• Diced jalapeno-Enough said.
• Cayenne pepper-A little goes a long way, but this definitely turns up the temperature.
• Smoked paprika-This classic Spanish ingredient will take your taste buds right to Andalucia.
• Lime or lemon juice-If you're like me, a squeeze of acidity gives things just the right bright touch.
• Tequila-Don't laugh. It's not quite a cocktail...just a high-octane soup. And an aged 100% agave tequila gives a beautiful richness to the taste profile.

Garnishes

Here are a few things you could throw on top of the soup for added decadence and texture.

• Cooked crab meat
• Steamed or grilled shrimp
• Toasted sliced almonds
• A crumble of goat cheese
• Diced avocado
• Tiny diced celery
• Mini toasted croutons
• Slivers of Spanish jamon, baked until crispy
• I've even seen it topped with minced hard-boiled egg.